He
Libertarians to contest Lyne HOSPITAL UPGRADE
Macquarie-Hastings councillor Mark Hornshaw flagged a
Barrington Coast secures ECO Destination Certification
THE Barrington Coast region has achieved ECO Destination Certification through Ecotourism Australia.
Located on the lower mid-north coast of New South Wales, the Barrington Coast is a haven for nature lovers and home to incredible landscapes such as the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of the Barrington Tops and the Ramsar Convention designated wetland of international importance the Myall Lakes.
This milestone makes the Barrington Coast the fifth destination in New South Wales and the 13th in Australia to receive this distinguished recognition.
"We’re incredibly excited to welcome the Barrington Coast region
as our newest certified ECO Destination,” said Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan.
"Led by the wonderful team at MidCoast Council, this achievement highlights the region’s commitment to adhering to global best practice sustainable tourism.
“Alongside achieving ECO Destination Certification, the region has actively supported local operators to achieve business certification or to complete our pre-certification benchmarking tool, the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard,” Ms Keenan said.
Support for the certification program was also provided from WWFAustralia's Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund.
Libertarians to contest Lyne
their present state,” he said.
“Instead of rejecting the environmentally and economically destructive net-zero agenda, the coalition plays along.
Certification with Ecotourism
“Our ECO Destination
they accept the status quo.”
member for Lyne”.
Mr Hornshaw said the Libertarians want to dramatically reduce taxes, and increase the tax-free threshold to $50,000 for individuals and $100,000 combined income for couples.
“The biggest contributor to the rising cost of living is the cost of government, yet instead of cutting taxes and waste,
“Instead of opposing censorship, spying, digital ID, and ‘hate speech’ laws, they support these 'Big Brother' impositions.
to Residents
“We oppose digital ID, censorship, 'misinformation' laws and social media bans," he said.
“And we oppose the destructive bipartisan agenda of net-zero.”
The Libertarians garnered considerable local support in the 2024 council elections, securing around 16 percent of the primary vote in Port Macquarie-Hastings and around 23 percent in MidCoast Council.
MidCoast councillor Mark Graham, who also represents the Libertarians, said Mr Hornshaw would make “an excellent federal
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“Mark’s election campaign in 2022, which took a principled stand against lockdowns, mandates and government overreach is what inspired many of us to join the Libertarian Party.
"The Libertarians have become a strong force in the area, with an amazing level of grassroots support.”
Mr Hornshaw is an economist with 15 years of university teaching experience in economics, management and entrepreneurship.
Prior to that he operated businesses in the telecommunications and foodservice industries.
He has also served as president of a state sporting organisation, board member of an overseas aid charity, and Federal Policy Chair for the Libertarian Party.
Australia, highlights our continued commitment and progress towards a more sustainable tourism industry, while creating more attractive experiences for locals and visitors,” said Mayor Claire Pontin.
MidCoast Council has implemented a wide range of sustainability initiatives including developing a Climate Action Strategy to achieve Net Zero targets by 2040, installing over 200kW of solar panels across 10 public buildings, holding water resilience workshops, and replacing printed visitor information booklets with QR codes that link to interactive online guides.
Destination NSW Acting CEO Karen Jones said, “Destination NSW congratulates Barrington Coast on achieving ECO Destination Certification — an achievement that reflects the region’s deep commitment to sustainability across environmental, cultural, and socio-economic dimensions.
"By embracing global best practices, Barrington
Coast is not only protecting its extraordinary natural landscapes but also strengthening local businesses’ role in sustainable tourism.
"This milestone reinforces the region’s position as a premier destination for naturebased experiences in NSW, and Destination NSW is proud to support its ongoing efforts to safeguard these assets for future generations."
ECO Destination Certification at the Ecotourism level assesses a region on more than 90 criteria across eight sections including Destination Management, Environment and Climate, Culture and Tradition, and Social Wellbeing. By achieving ECO Destination Certification, the Barrington Coast joins a growing network of certified destinations in New South Wales - Bellingen Shire, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Coffs Harbour.
The Barrington Coast has 191km of pristine coastline, 58 national parks, nature reserves and conservation areas; 63 state forests; eight designated Aboriginal Places; and 38 rivers.
Following the Black Summer bushfires, WWFAustralia partnered with Ecotourism Australia to help
11 bushfire-affected regions build back better through ecotourism.
q Gloucester Tops circuit walk in the Barrington Tops National Park.
q Libertarian candidate Mark Hornshaw.
Madison and Mr Grey shine at awards
By Shannon BENTON
THE Coogee Legion Club played host to the prestigious After the Track Community Awards on 2 February.
Organised by founding director Sharon Lenton and the Thoroughbred Ladies, the event celebrated the post-racing
lives of thoroughbreds and those dedicated to their care and success beyond the track.
Among the five nominees for the evening, Madison Lowrey stood out as she was named NSW Most Outstanding Off The Track Handler and Horse.
Madison’s journey with horses began at an
early age while growing up on her family’s property in Tillegra, nestled on the Salisbury Road along the Williams River, just eleven kilometres from Dungog.
Ironically, the first horse her grandfather sat her on was a grey - a fitting prelude to her partnership with her current thoroughbred, Golden Sky, affectionately known at home as Mr Grey.
A dedicated and passionate horsewoman,
Madison was an active member of the Dungog Pony Club and went on to represent her schools in various equestrian competitions. She excelled in campdrafting before transitioning to showing at agricultural shows, where she has earned numerous accolades, including Champion, Reserve Champion, and Fashions on the Field with Mr Grey.
This year marks her third consecutive competition with Mr Grey at the Sydney Royal, where she first tasted success with a placing in her debut year.
Madison’s career in the equine industry began at Torryburn Horse Stud at the age of seventeen.
Four years ago, the stud’s manager Mel Copelin, offered her the opportunity to re-home Mr Grey, sparking an extraordinary partnership between horse and handler.
Reflecting on Madison’s achievements, her mother Alison proudly shared, “Madison’s love for her horses is unbelievable.
“Her dedication, patience, and hard work have paid off.
“She has handled quite a few challenges along the way, and I am so very proud of her.”
‘Team Lowrey’ is overjoyed to have Mr Grey as part of their lives, showering him with love and care as they look forward to many more successes in the years ahead.
Clarence Town Flood Study
Dungog Shire Council is undertaking a Flood Study for Clarence Town and the surrounding environs to improve the understanding of flood behaviour and impacts, and better inform the management of flood risk. The study will also support the concurrent development of the Clarence Town Structure Plan.
Whilst previous studies have been undertaken in the area, there is no comprehensive investigation covering all flood mechanisms throughout the area. Also, these studies are now relatively old and significant changes have subsequently occurred in both the methodologies and policies in floodplain risk management.
Your local knowledge of the catchment and personal experiences of flooding will help us to undertake this flood study.
HOSPITAL UPGRADE
FROM Page 1
Hospital, enhancing safety and improving capacity for temporary staff.
Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) is planning to complete these projects in the 2025/2026 financial year.
“The Regional Minor Works Program will allow Hunter New England Local Health District to expand the size of the ED at Scone, create a more comfortable space for palliative care patients and their loved ones at Muswellbrook and boost the availability of key health worker accommodation at Dungog,” said Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park.
“The program is one of a number of investments the Minns Labor Government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home.”
HNELHD Acting Executive Director of Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Anna Styles-Tape said, “These investments continue our District’s goal of improving healthcare for regional areas, and we look forward to sharing updates with the local communities about each project as they progress.”
Visiting us in person at one of the following information sessions: Saturday, 22 February: · 9:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Clarence Town Markets · 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm in front of the Clarence Town IGA Tuesday, 4 March: · 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm at the Clarence Town School of Arts Hall
Completing our online survey: www.dungog.nsw.gov.au/floodstudy
q Madison Lowrey with Golden Sky (aka Mr Grey).
Lisa WISEMAN 0437 315 191 lisa@newsofthearea.com.au
Shannon BENTON 0400 163 360 benton@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
02 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Reappeal for information after pursuit
NSW POLICE are reappealing for information after the driver of a pursued vehicle was believed to have been seen on the Pacific Highway.
Police believe the man might have been sighted on the southbound side of the Pacific Highway at Balickera, just south of the Italia Road turnoff, about 1.45pm on Thursday 13 February 2025.
About 8am last Thursday, police attempted to stop a blue Ford Falcon on The Bucketts Way at Booral.
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Inquiries revealed the vehicle was stolen from Queensland and the driver had allegedly failed to pay for fuel at a service station in Walcha earlier that day.
When the driver failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.
The pursuit continued to a
rest stop at Twelve Mile Creek where the driver exited the vehicle and entered bushland on foot.
Officers searched for the man with the assistance of the Dog Unit and PolAir, however he was not located.
A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a firearm.
As part of inquiries, police released an image and description of a man they believe can assist with inquiries.
He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of thin build, about 165-175cm tall, with brown hair and brown eyes.
He was last seen wearing a black hat and black shirt with a large white motif.
Anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area is urged to contact Raymond Terrace Police or Crime Stoppers
Report slams bulk-billing access
INDEPENDENT candidate for Lyne Jeremy Miller says he is “shocked but not
surprised” at a January report revealing no bulk billing medical centres in the Lyne electorate.
On 13 January 2025, Cleanbill released its third
annual “Blue Report”, providing nationwide and state-by-state insights into GP billing arrangements across multiple years.
The report’s findings focus on the electorates with the largest increases and decreases in bulk billing and out-of-pocket costs since the start of 2023, as well as those which no longer have any bulk billing clinics.
Lyne was listed as one of ten federal electorates where there are no bulk billing medical centres.
“While some electorates have gained bulk billing clinics since 2023, the vast majority (86.7 percent) lost them,” the report states.
“And there were significant drops in bulk billing in some electorates over the course of just the last two years, with
15 electorates (state and federal) now containing no available, bulk billing GP clinics.
“The story is much the same with out-of-pocket costs: some electorates saw decreases, but the vast majority of electorates showed increases in outof-pocket costs, some by as much as 25 percent of the average fee at the start of 2023.
“With bulk billing rates and out-of-pocket costs varying so greatly from electorate to electorate, it’s critically important that Australians have easy access to availability and pricing information for every clinic around them.”
Jeremy Miller, who will run as an independent in the upcoming federal election, said locals across Lyne were raising the issue regularly.
“We’re in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis and local
people can’t access the bulkbilled healthcare that they need.
“It should be a right for all of us to have affordable access to see a doctor that we know.
“People are delaying going to the doctor because they can’t afford it and that’s a real risk to their health.”
If elected, Mr Miller pledged to push for “immediate action and real solutions”.
“People need relief now, not more talk from politicians,” he said.
“We have a pilot program in our area that is getting doctors and nurses to stay in our community long term.
“That’s not the whole solution, but it’s a start.
“These are the practical, low-cost solutions that we need.
“I’ll fight for funding to expand that program through our region.“
q The alleged driver was last seen wearing a black hat and black shirt with a large white motif.
Labor pains as Dutton rides high in polls
By Jacob SHTEYMAN, AAP
PETER Dutton appears to be kicking with the wind behind his back, with multiple opinion polls showing the Albanese government could be on the nose with voters as an election nears.
The latest Newspoll published in The Australian newspaper on Monday shows the coalition has a 51-49 lead over Labor in the two-party preferred stakes.
Labor's primary vote is languishing at 31, compared to the coalition's 38, the poll found.
Some 53 percent of those surveyed believed the Albanese government did not deserve to be re-elected, while 34 per cent were happy to give it another term.
About 45 percent believed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese would be the better PM, compared to Mr Dutton's 40 percent.
The poll surveyed 1244 voters nationally last week.
Federal MPs linked the result to cost of living pressures faced by voters, with independent Jacqui Lambie telling Nine's Today show "it's very scary out there".
But senior Labor minister
Tanya Plibersek said the opposition had no plan to help families.
"That is why it is so important that we remind people that Peter Dutton has opposed every single cost of living measure that we have tried to introduce," she told Seven's Sunrise program on Monday.
"He's got no plan to take pressure off families."
Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce said Ms Plibersek was "rubbing salt into the wound of people" doing tough.
"It is a debacle and part of our plan (to address the cost of living) is to remove you," he told Seven.
Meanwhile, modelling from pollster YouGov projected the coalition to win 73 seats at the election - putting Mr Dutton in pole position to form government.
The former Queensland police officer on Sunday was spruiking a pledge to upgrade public lighting to improve safety in a suburb outside Darwin where youth crime is a key concern for voters.
"Part of our plan to get Australia back on track is about keeping Australia safe - safe for families, safe for businesses and safe for communities," he said.
The former coalition
hard man has softened his image since ascending to the leadership but crime and border security are still his bread and butter.
Polls show voters consider Mr Dutton a stronger leader on matters of law and order than Mr Albanese, who voters consider the weakest party leader in decades.
The announcement coincided with another opportunity to whack Labor for being weak on borders.
As Mr Dutton fielded
questions from reporters in Palmerston, Home Affairs
Minister Tony Burke revealed a deal had been struck with Nauru to resettle three noncitizens following the NZYQ High Court case.
Australia will pay Nauru to take the trio which includes a convicted murderer.
Mr Dutton said Labor's "mess" at the borders was increasing boat arrivals.
He said the Albanese government had cut back aerial surveillance by 20
per cent, and on-water surveillance has been reduced.
While these issues are Mr Dutton's strong suit, Redbridge polling published in News Corp papers on Sunday showed they are not the most pressing for voters.
The cost of living was far and above the biggest concern, with 84 per cent of respondents ranking it in their top three.
However, Mr Dutton has vowed not to support
electricity subsidies for Australian families, ruling out an extension to the government's energy bill payments because he claims it's contributing to inflation.
Housing Minister Clare O'Neil said that showed his hypocrisy "knows no bounds".
"Every opportunity, we're finding ways to try to provide assistance to people, and in almost every instance, Peter Dutton has stood in our path," she told Sky News.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP,
Muswellbrook
q Peter Dutton's coalition is in pole position to form government after the election, polling shows. Photo: Steven Markham/AAP PHOTOS.
Anger in halls of power over 'unfair' electoral reforms
By Dominic GIANNINI, AAP
FIRED-UP independents are vowing to stonewall controversial electoral reforms and use any leverage in a hung parliament to rebalance the scales.
The reforms include a campaign spending cap of $800,000 per electorate but registered political parties will be able to access a $90
million war chest for general advertising.
Independent Zali Steggall confronted Special Minister of State Don Farrell, who spearheaded the legislation, at Parliament House on Thursday as the law passed, accusing the major parties of collaborating to lock out independents.
The overall cap stacked the field for the major parties, which could save
cash in safe seats and inundate close contests with party branding or attack ads above and beyond what a single person could access, Ms Steggall said.
Independents are also upset that more public money will be given to parties per vote received.
This would disproportionately help the majors, which would receive millions of dollars
more, and entrench a twoparty system, Ms Steggall said after crashing Senator Farrell's press conference and chastising him over the laws.
"Why don't you tell this room of people that... the big money that will be in politics is the public money?" Ms Steggall said to the Labor senator.
Senate candidates have different caps - $200,000 per seat in a given state or territory.
This limits campaign spending to $600,000 for
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I’ve known Alison Penfold a long time and I’m supporting her because I know she will listen, care and deliver like I have.
Alison will stand up for you when others won’t. She will fight for policies to get Australia back on track and bring down the cost of living.
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ALISON PENFOLD
THE NATIONALS for Lyne
the ACT and $9.2 million for NSW.
The laws start in mid-2026 so the next election would be the last at which independents could effectively challenge incumbents, Ms Steggall said.
"This is not how democracy can thrive," she said at a subsequent press conference.
"What you want is choice.
"You want competition."
Senator Farrell, who denied the rules were stacked in favour of the major parties, said they stripped big money from politics and Labor had taken a haircut on what it could receive and spend.
"The whole process pushes downward pressure on the cost of elections so ordinary Australians have a chance to be elected, not those candidates that are supported by the billionaires and the millionaires," he said.
An individual can donate $50,000 to a political campaign per party branch each calendar year, which increases to $450,000 in total if they donate to a branch in each state and territory as well as the national arm.
Donors hedging their bets and giving cash to multiple parties will be capped at $1.6
million nationwide, although this is limited to $250,000 in any state or territory.
Campaign spending for non-political parties, such as unions and special interest groups, will be capped at $11 million.
Aggregated donations of more than $5000 will have to be disclosed - down from the 2023/24 threshold of $16,900 - and disclosures must happen within weeks instead of the current annual returns.
Independents have vowed fairer reforms will be part of any minority government negotiations if there was a hung parliament after the next election.
Other electoral changes include how peak bodies accept cash from affiliated groups and allocate those funds to electoral campaigns, with a mandated account where political spending can be audited.
The Australia Institute's Bill Browne called for all donations from corporations to be disclosed, reforms to people paying to access politicians and for electoral commission payments to be distributed before elections to make them fairer for people challenging incumbents.
Authorised by David Gillespie, Cnr Cameron St and Oxley Hwy, Wauchope NSW 2446
q Independent MP Zali Steggall confronted cabinet minister Don Farrell over donation reforms. Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
JAMES MAY: OUR MAN IN ITALY
SBS, 7.30pm
An incredible career has seen James May (pictured) travel the world with Top Gear and The Grand Tour but now he’s flying solo for an Italian sojourn in search of ‘la dolce vita’. Italy is one of the presenter’s favourite countries and he’s keen to see as much of its culture, food, industry and sport as possible, from the sparkling waters of the Amalfi Coast to the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites. May begins his travelogue tonight in the sunny Sicilian capital of Palermo, where he discovers centuries of history carved into the city’s architectural landscape and soaks up life’s simple pleasures.
FRIDAY, February 21
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Monty Don’s Spanish Gardens. Monty Don travels across the north of Spain. 8.30 Silent Witness. (Final, Ma) Nikki and the team are called to Kings Cross station museum, after eight bodies are found entombed below.
10.15 Optics. (Mls, R)
10.45 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
11.15 ABC Late News.
11.30 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) (PG, R)
12.15 Grand Designs. (R)
1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
SUNDAY
MATLOCK
TEN, 8.30pm
This week, Matlock draws inspiration from the excellent Netflix comedy
A Man on the Inside, which sees Ted Danson go undercover as a private eye in an aged care home. While not going to the same lengths in the name of espionage, “Crash Helmets On” sees legal eagles Matty (Kathy Bates) and Sarah (Leah Lewis, pictured) bond after posing as family members to gather intel about the goings on at Tranquil Pines, an assisted living facility being defended against claims of negligence by the Jacobson-Moore team. But when Sarah opens up about her childhood and real-life grandmother, Matty once again risks getting too close to a colleague and endangering her secret sabotage mission.
R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of Royal Gardens. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (Premiere, Ml)
8.30 Tony Robinson’s Marvellous Machines. (R) 9.25 Mysteries Of The Ancient Dead.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Bonn. (Msv)
11.45 Sisi. (MA15+s, R)
2.30 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PGa, R) 3.30 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R) 4.20 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
MONDAY
SUITS L.A.
SEVEN, 9.10pm
It’s a story every TV producer dreams of: four years after legal drama called it quits in 2019, the series became the moststreamed show of 2023 (even beating Bluey).
Whatever the reason for its belated surge in popularity (though razor-sharp writing, racy office romances and curiosity about Meghan Markle’s acting talents come to mind), creator Aaron Korsh can only hope lightning strikes twice with this West Coast spin-off. It follows former New York federal prosecutor Ted Black (Arrow’s Stephen Amell, pictured), whose fresh start as an entertainment lawyer isn’t going to plan – his Black Lane firm is in dire straits and he’s not at all keen on the only way to save it from ruin.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Adam Dovile travels in Canada. 8.30 MOVIE: The Greatest Showman. (2017, PGa, R) After meeting a wealthy playwright, entrepreneur PT Barnum sets out to create a wax museum and circus. Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron. 10.40 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.10 Australian Idol. (PGl, R)
12.50 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals: The New Wild. (PG)
8.40 MOVIE: The Hitman’s Bodyguard. (2017, MA15+alv, R) A bodyguard protects the life of a hit man. Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L Jackson.
11.05 MOVIE: No Sudden Move. (2021, MA15+lv)
1.00 Getaway. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Wheel Of Fortune UK. Contestants compete to solve word puzzles in order to win cash and prizes determined by The Wheel. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Guests include Julianne Moore, Ricky Gervais, Jamie Oliver, Paapa Essiedu and Olivia Dean. 10.50 10’s Late News. 11.15 The Project. (R) 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00
SATURDAY, February 22
WorldWatch. 9.00
Bitesize. (PG, R) 9.10 Love Your Home And Garden. (PGa, R) 10.00 The World From Above. (R) 11.05 Ageless Gardens. (Md, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Figure Skating. ISU European C’ships. H’lights. 4.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 4.35 Wonders Of Scotland. (PGa, R) 5.30 The Graveyard Of Truk Lagoon.
6.30 SBS World News.
6.00 Australian Story: Heartfelt –Colin Clausen And Laura Aisbett. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: Kangaroo Island, South Australia. (PG, R) Paul West visits Kangaroo Island. 7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) The team rallies round Selwyn. 8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) The badly beaten body of a homeless veteran is found on the streets of central Newcastle.
10.05 The Newsreader. (Ml, R) Dale hosts a lavish birthday party.
10.55 Unforgotten. (Mal, R)
11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.15 Chopped Junior. (Return) 9.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.40 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.30 Dragon Ball Super. 10.55 Late Programs.
7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Woodland Restoration.
8.25 Scotland The New Wild. (PG)
9.25 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PG, R)
10.20 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
11.30 Home Jacking. (MA15+av)
1.15 The Man Who Died. (Mals, R)
3.00 Love Your Garden. (R)
3.55 Employable Me (USA) (Mal, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 1. Sydney 500. Day 1. Pre-race and race.
9.15 MOVIE: The Bourne Ultimatum. (2007, Mv, R) A former secret agent is once again hunted by the agency that created him. Matt Damon, Julia Stiles. 11.35 Motorway Patrol. (PGa) 12.05 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 1. Sydney 500. Day 1. Highlights. 1.05 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Horse Racing. 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: A Star Is Born. (2018, Madls, R) A musician helps a young singer. Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper.
11.15 My Life As A Rolling Stone. (Mad, R)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 Let’s Eat With George. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
(64)
6am The Last
Wave. Continued. (1977, PG) 7.15 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 9.15 Much Ado About Nothing. (1993, PG) 11.20 But I’m A Cheerleader. (1999, M) 12.55pm Blue Jean. (2022, M) 2.45 Bride And Prejudice. (2004, PG) 4.50 Red Obsession. (2013, PG) 6.20 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 8.35 L.A. Confidential. (1997, MA15+) 11.00 Getaway Of Love. (2015, MA15+, Italian) 12.40am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, February 23
(Final, R) 3.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure. (PGn, R) 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.05
Is Going To Be
(PG, R)
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (PG)
8.30 The Newsreader. (Mal) Rob makes a controversial comment on air when discussing apartheid sports boycotts.
9.25 Love Me. (Ml) Glen, Clara and Aaron find themselves alone.
10.20 MOVIE: Sunday Too Far Away. (1975, Mlv, R)
11.50 You Can’t Ask That. (MA15+as, R)
12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Australia Remastered. (R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.15 Speechless. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 11.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 Powerchair
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Ancient Greece By Train. (Premiere)
8.25 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of A Dynasty. (Premiere)
9.20 Legends Of The Pharaohs. (Ma, R)
10.20 Great British Landmark Fixers. (R)
11.15 Death Of An Icon: Marilyn Monroe. (Mads, R)
12.15 Nadia: A Stolen Life. (Malv, R) 1.50 Love Your Garden. (R) 2.40 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R) 3.30 Sing St Patrick. (R) 4.30 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
Queer Sports. 5.45 Domino Masters. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 10.10 WWE Legends. 11.45 Hoarders. 12.40am The X-Files. 4.20 NHK World English News.
MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Much Ado About Nothing. Continued. (1993, PG) 7.05 Tourism. (2017) 8.35 Paris Can Wait. (2016, PG) 10.15 Dance First. (2023) 12.15pm Radioactive. (2019, M) 2.20 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 4.20 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 6.20 Agatha Christie’s Crooked House. (2017, PG) 8.30 In The Heat Of The Night. (1967, M) 10.35 Hidden Away. (2020, M, Italian) 12.45am Long Story Short. (2021, M) 2.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PG) 8.40 The Hunters: Beaumont Children Mystery. (Mav) A look at the Beaumont children’s disappearance. 10.10 Murder In The Outback: The Falconio And Lees Mystery. (Mdlv, R)
12.10 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 1. Sydney 500. Day 2. Highlights.
1.10 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
2.30 To Be Advised.
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
(64)
v Sydney. 5.30 MOVIE: The Lego Batman Movie. (2017, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice. (2016, M) 10.35 Gotham. 12.35am Arrow. 2.30 Young Sheldon. 3.00 Beyblade X. 4.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 3pm Motor Racing. National Drag Racing C’ship. Top Doorslammer. 4.00 Counting Cars. 4.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Qualifying and support races. 6.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Pre-race and race. 7.00 Storage Wars. (Return) 7.30 MOVIE: Taken 3. (2014, M) 9.45 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.45 Late Programs.
6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm The Nanny. 1.00
Over. 4.20 Young Sheldon. 5.20 MOVIE: Space Jam. (1996) 7.00 Basketball. WNBL Playoffs. Second semi-final series. Perth Lynx v Townsville Fire. 9.00 MOVIE: She’s The Man. (2006, PG) 11.05 MOVIE: The Hustle. (2019, M) 1am Late
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls)
The First 48. (MA15+v)
MONDAY, February 24
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
SBS World News.
Sicily With Michael Portillo. (Premiere, PG) 8.25 Wilderness With Simon Reeve. (PG)
9.35 Inside Sydney Airport. (PGa, R) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Wisting. (Malv) 12.45 A French Case. (Mas, R) 2.45 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (MA15+a, R)
3.40 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 Suits L.A. (Premiere, Ma) A former New York prosecutor opens a Los Angeles law firm that specialises in criminal and entertainment law.
10.10 St. Denis Medical. (M) Joyce is smitten by a burly prison guard.
11.10 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGas)
12.10 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (Mv) 10.10 To Be Advised. 11.10 9News Late. 11.40 First On Scene. (Mav, R)
6am Kung Fu
Yoga. Continued. (2017, PG) 7.00 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 9.10 Basmati Blues. (2017, PG) 11.10 Baby Done. (2020, M) 12.50pm Hidden Away. (2020, M, Italian) 3.00 Tourism. (2017) 4.25 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 6.15 Topkapi. (1964, PG) 8.30 Shaft. (1971, M) 10.25 Breaking News In Yuba County. (2021, MA15+) 12.15am Late Programs. 5.55 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG)
TUESDAY, February 25
Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R)
8.35 Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive.
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Prisoner. (MA15+av)
12.10 Fargo. (Malv, R)
1.55 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PG, R)
3.00 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Whisky Galore. Continued. (2016, PG) 7.50 Agatha Christie’s Crooked House. (2017, PG) 10.00 In The Heat Of The Night. (1967, M) 12.05pm Long Story Short. (2021, M) 1.50 8 1/2. (1963, PG, Italian) 4.20 Basmati Blues. (2017, PG) 6.20 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 8.30 Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. (1974, M) 10.35 Boiling Point. (2021, MA15+) 12.25am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Cash and Remi’s tension continues.
8.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG) Lee Mack hosts a game show where contestants must answer increasingly obscure questions.
9.00 The Hunting Party. (M) The team searches for Dr Ezekiel Malak, a hospital psychiatrist turned deranged killer.
10.00 The Irrational. (Mav) Alec enters the world of K-pop fandom.
12.00 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 Madam.
6.00
WEDNESDAY, February 26
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.50 Vienna: Empire, Dynasty And Dream. (PGas, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis. (PGa, R) 3.00 Where Are You Really From? (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Ancient Superstructures. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Lord Lucan. (M)
8.35 The Jury: Murder Trial UK. (Premiere) A real-life trial is restaged in front of two juries.
9.30 Rogue Heroes. (Return)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Pagan Peak. (MA15+av)
12.05 My Brilliant Friend. (Mav, R)
3.25 Employable Me (UK) (Mals, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (PGa, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 Ludwig. (Ma) A cryptic late night call from Holly sees Lucy lured into danger.
9.45 How To Poison Your Husband. (Ma) Details the shocking crimes of Heather Mook.
11.15 Breathtaking. (Mal)
12.15 Covert Affairs. (Mv, R)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mas)
9.00 Big Miracles. (Mam)
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Casualty 24/7. (Mam, R)
11.30 The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R)
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Your Next Cruise. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 The Dog House Australia. (Return, PGa) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 8.30 Elsbeth. (Mv) After one of New York’s most sought-after plastic surgeons is found dead, Elsbeth has her eye on the victim’s former boss. 9.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (PGav) A naval officer vanishes. 10.25 10’s Late News. 10.50 The Project. (R) 11.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6am A Handful
Of Dust. Continued. (1988, PG) 8.05 Topkapi. (1964, PG) 10.15 Miss Marx. (2020, M) 12.15pm Shaft. (1971, M) 2.10 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 4.00 The Movie Show. 4.30 A Hero. (2021, PG, Farsi) 6.50 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 8.30 Dog Day Afternoon. (1975, M) 10.55 A Most Wanted Man. (2014, M) 1.05am Joe. (2013, MA15+) 3.15 Late Programs.
THURSDAY, February 27
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.10 The Role Of A Lifetime. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Newsreader. (Mal, R) 2.00 Miniseries: In Our Blood. (Final, Mal, R) 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.45 Victorian House Of Arts And Crafts. (PGl, R) 10.55 South Africa From Above. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis. (PGa, R) 3.00 Shepherdess. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Ancient Superstructures. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots. (PG)
8.30 Scotland’s Poshest Train: Alan Cumming. (PG)
9.30 Boiling Point. (Premiere)
10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Golden Boy. (Mlns)
11.55 Blackport. (MA15+s, R)
1.50 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PG, R)
2.55 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Abigail is shaken by a lack of trust.
8.30 MOVIE: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. (2018, PGs, R) A young woman prepares to reopen her family hotel, while learning more about the life of her late mother. Lily James, Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep.
10.50 To Be Advised.
12.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R) 9.00 MOVIE: The Hangover. (2009, MA15+lnsv, R) Bradley Cooper. 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 First On Scene. (MA15+a) 11.55 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
Pointless. (PG, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00
6am A Hero. Continued. (2021, PG, Farsi) 8.00 8 1/2. (1963, PG, Italian) 10.30 Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. (1974, M) 12.35pm Manon Des Sources. (1986, M, French) 2.40 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 4.50 Skies Of Lebanon. (2020, PG, Italian) 6.35 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 8.30 One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. (1975, MA15+) 11.00 Silverado. (1985, M) 1.25am Late Programs.
Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Sunday evening for publication on a Wednesday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it in our dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au.
9GO! (83)
(83)
MINIS Colleen
Late of Gloucester. Passed away peacefully on 10th February 2025. Aged 86 years
Much loved wife of Al. Loving mother and mother in-law to Kent & Paula. Proud and loving grandmother to all her grandchildren & great grandchildren. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Colleen’s Funeral Service to be held at the Gloucester Country Club, Gloucester on Friday 21st February 2025 commencing at 11am prior to a private cremation.
In lieu of flowers donations to Dementia Australia would be greatly appreciated by the family.
(02) 6552 1057
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
WHEN I go out with my friends for dinner, it is always agreed that we will share meals and share costs.
The problem is I'm a very slow eater, I'm vegetarian, and I don't drink.
I end up paying top dollar for cocktails, bottles of wine, and multiple meat dishes, when all I've had is a salad and soda water.
Helena R.
Dear Helena,
Wow, you sound like a lot of fun to be around.
I think it's impressive that you still get invited out.
Do you scowl across the table
and hand send links to greenhouse gas articles as the beef massaman arrives?
Do you hand out Dry July pamphlets and news articles about the importance of mindful chewing?
Going out to dinner is all about participating in the deadly sin of gluttony.
You can't say you've been out to dinner with a group of friends unless you've had to undo the top button of your jeans, you've sworn off food for a month, you've downed an espresso martini even though you're a tea drinker, and you've tried to split a bill when basic calculations have taken on the complexity of quantum physics.
Economically, and for the enjoyment of those around you, I feel as though you need a new friend group.
Perhaps you could put some search terms in social media.
How about the Non-AlcoholicFatty-Liver Support and Social group?
Proselytising Vegans on a
Budget?
The Mindful Eating and Stress Management Group?
I'm sure a boost in membership from two would make them very happy.
Alternatively, have you considered that you could still have cost parity with some more exciting menu choices?
Salad and Soda Water?
Stop being a martyr.
Spend up big on mocktails, order two mains - the three cheese and mushroom pizza that will give everyone your friends stomach pains and some nachos with chilli guac, which is sure to be a mouth and eyewatering choice.
Then get a couple of desserts and enjoy the looks on your friends' faces with the interminable wait while you slowly mull over each sparrowlike peck of your food.
I doubt you'll ever have to suffer from a shared bill again.
nest - Tweetsville.
Kids Boot Camp 031
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
30 years of caring and sharing
DUNGOG and District Neighbourcare recently hosted a heartwarming celebration at the Dungog Day Care Centre to commemorate the Care & Share group's 30th anniversary.
This milestone event brought together past and present members, community supporters, and local dignitaries for a joyful morning of reflection, connection, and appreciation.
Care & Share, a social support service proudly operated by Neighbourcare, began in 1995 through a collaborative effort between local community members and the Uniting and Baptist churches.
With the support of the Hunter Volunteer Centre, dedicated volunteers were trained to help facilitate the group's activities.
Since then, the group has become a cherished part of the local community, providing seniors with opportunities for friendship, personal development, and social engagement.
Lurline Trustum, a retired, long-serving Neighbourcare staff member and much-loved community personality, delivered an address that recounted the group's inspiring journey.
"It all started with a simple idea: creating a space where older people in Dungog could come together for fellowship, friendship, and learning.
"To see it thriving 30 years later is truly heartwarming.
“The commitment of volunteers, Neighbourcare's leadership, and members' dedication have made this group a pillar of our community.
“I am incredibly proud to see original members Betty, Gordon, and Dawn still actively involved," said Ms Trustum. Over the years, Care & Share has become an integral part of Neighbourcare's service offerings, available through both Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Home Care Package (HCP) funding.
The group continues to foster meaningful
connections and enrich the lives of local seniors.
Cherylin Brown, General Manager of Neighbourcare, emphasised the ongoing importance of Care & Share.
"This milestone is evidence of the power of community and the enduring value of social connection.
"Care & Share is more than just a group. It's a lifeline for many seniors who find friendship, purpose, and joy through its activities.
“Neighbourcare is proud to support and nurture this service, and we look forward to many more years of Care & Share making a positive impact," said Ms Brown.
The celebration featured light refreshments, heartfelt speeches, and a chance for attendees to share memories and stories.
Love Water Grants program returns
HUNTER WATER has announced the return of its Love Water Grants program for 2025.
A total of $125,000 in funding is available to local groups and organisations with innovative ideas that inspire water conservation, sustainability, and community wellbeing. Now in its eighth year,
the Love Water Grants program has supported dozens of community initiatives across the Hunter region, including projects that improve environmental
outcomes, educate on water sustainability, and enhance community spaces.
Hunter Water Managing Director Darren Cleary, said the Love Water Grants
embody the organisation’s commitment to fostering a sustainable future through collaboration and innovation.
“Hunter Water is proud to support the creative and passionate people of the Lower Hunter who share our vision for sustainability and making a positive difference in our communities.
“This year’s program offers grants of up to $10,000 to successful applicants, providing vital funding for projects that align with Hunter Water’s values and shared love of water,” Mr Cleary said.
Looking back to last year, the 2024 Love Water Grants program is already making a meaningful impact in the community.
Gresford District Community Group has harnessed its $7,000 grant to significantly upgrade Therese Doyle Hall.
With rain events frequently posing a risk of damage, the funding has helped to repair the hall's gutters and install a new rainwater tank, protecting the building's structural
integrity.
"Our community hall is the heart of East Gresford," explains Penny Kater of the Gresford District Community Group.
“Our Love Water Grant has allowed us to safeguard the hall against weatherrelated damage and collect rainwater to reduce reliance on external water sources.
“It's a win for both our community and the environment.
“The hall serves as a gathering place for the community and is used for various activities, from monthly meetings to more significant events.
“These improvements ensure it will remain a functional, sustainable space for years to come,” said Ms Kater.
Applications for the Love Water Grants program are open until 11:59pm, Friday 14 March, with community groups, schools, and notfor-profit organisations encouraged to apply.
For more information about the program or to apply, visit hunterwater.com. au/grants.
q Lurline Trustum.
q CEO John Baillie.
q The Gresford District Community Group harnessed its $7,000 grant from 2024 to significantly upgrade Therese Doyle Hall.
q The Care & Share cake.
From survival skills to bush school
By Shannon BENTON
FOR Nikki Brown, a lifelong love of the outdoors has transformed into a thriving community initiative teaching kids the bush skills she has spent years mastering.
Growing up, Nikki was always drawn to adventure.
As a Venturer with Scouts, a keen cyclist, and an active member of the Mountaineering Club at Newcastle University, she found joy in nature and the challenges it presented.
Her passion led her to pursue a degree in Environmental Science and a certificate in Bush Regeneration.
Yet it was her discovery of survival skills that truly connected all the pieces.
“Everything just clicked,” Nikki recalls.
“It was an adventure, living in balance with nature, and understanding the bush as a home - one that can sustain us if we know it well enough.”
Determined to learn, she sought out the best survival skills teachers from both Australia and the United States. She attended every bush tucker walk she could find, connected with Aboriginal knowledgeholders, and frequently travelled to a remote community in North-East Arnhem Land.
She read extensively and, ultimately, put her knowledge to the test - spending a year
THE NSW Nationals are pushing for “strong and immediate legislative reform” to stop repeat youth offenders from carrying out crime sprees across regional NSW.
living in the bush in a shelter she built herself, honing the skills she had worked so hard to acquire.
This deep connection with nature led Nikki to cofound Wildcraft Australia with fellow Dungog local Sam New, which runs outdoor education programs along the east coast.
In tandem with the rising popularity of the Dungog Common as a community hub, Nikki started a small bush school to engage local
children in the wonders of the wild.
“It’s been such a joy and a privilege to offer this program for the last four years,” Nikki says.
Last week, her young adventurers practiced foxwalking, explored the creek, made rope from bark, and acted out a story about a lost child.
“Sure, we get a bit dirty,
maybe a few scratches, but the benefits are immeasurable.
“Kids develop reallife skills, resilience, and confidence.
“I’ve seen children and their parents grow stronger, fitter, and more capable.
“They learn enough to teach others - maybe even enough to help themselves in a tough situation.”
Nats push for youth crime reforms
and having to fend for themselves.
“People are scared on the streets and scared in their homes, and we need swift and decisive action to stop our communities from being held to ransom by repeat youth offenders.”
seems to be throwing money at a couple of areas while the majority of regional NSW is screaming for help,” Mr Saunders said.
to acknowledge that any crime, big or small, can have a huge impact on individuals, families and the broader community.
“Nobody wants to see communities living in fear – and certainly not this government.
“That is not the kind of society we want to live in.
NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said residents and families have had enough.
“Youth crime is gripping
Notice was given in Parliament last week to address the legislative concerns, due to what the National Party considers the NSW Government’s “narrow approach” to the issue.
every corner of every rural and remote community and it’s getting worse and worse by the day,” Mr Saunders said.
“What we’re seeing here is a dribs and drabs approach rather than a statewide plan and it’s leaving most regional areas completely defenceless
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
LAST year, small-budget horror filmmaker Osgood Perkins (son of Psycho star Anthony Perkins) knocked the socks off most people who caught his occult-tinged film Longlegs
That’s given him a huge leg up in promoting his latest film, and an adaptation of a Stephen King short story, The Monkey
Spanning two eras, the tale is of twin brothers (Theo James) and the misfortunes they witness following the
appearance of a very creepy children’s toy.
Like his previous efforts Perkins prefers to build tension and atmosphere very slowly, relying on his performer to sell a sense of steadily growing horror.
What mustn't be forgotten, however, is that Perkins is very funny, and though it is midnight black in tone, there is a good deal of humor amidst the gore.
Gosh, remember Pamela Anderson?
The Last Showgirl makes a compelling case as
to why we should.
Coming from writer Kate Gersten and young Gia Coppola (of that film dynasty), Anderson stuns as Shelly, an aging Vegas showgirl whose long tenure in a popular revue is being brought to an end.
Estranged from her daughter, Shelly’s only friends are those who have shared the stage with her.
A heart-breaking portrayal of again and coming to terms with lifechoices that never work out the way we dream, this
The Nationals plan focuses on changes to the bail act to stop courts granting bail to serious repeat offenders, changes to “doli incapax” and amending the crimes sentencing procedure act to give more consideration to the harm that is caused to the victim.
“So far Labor’s changes have failed to prevent young criminals from reoffending or ‘posting and boasting’ and Chris Minns’ response
is very much in the vein of 2008’s The Wrestler
Some films are puzzling, and difficult to describe when someone asks the question “What’s it about?”, but leave an undeniable imprint on the soul, having moved you deeply in ways we can not even understand.
Bird is that kind of a film.
From British Writer/ Director Andrea Arnold and starring newcomer Nkiya Adams alongside Barry Keoghan and Franz Rogowski, this tale of a struggling adolescent’s strange friendship with a kind but simple man offers a blunt portrayal of lowincome life, along with hope that seemingly has no basis
“The minimal funding that has been rolled out in the past couple of weeks is a drop in the ocean and won’t help put an end to this crisis.”
“Something needs to urgently change here because the current approach simply isn’t working and our residents, businesses and families need to know they are safe.”
Last Wednesday during Parliamentary Question Time, Police Minister Yasmin Catley updated the House on the State Government’s work to address regional youth crime.
“Mr Speaker, first I want
in reality, but lifts the spirit nonetheless.
Finally this week another Irish filmmaker Nick Hamm takes a shot at a historical epic in the tale of William Tell
Starring Claes Bang in the title role with supporting turns from Connor Swindells and Golshifteh Farahani, along with appearances from legends Johnathon Pryce and Sir Ben Kingsley, this account of the 14th century Swiss folk hero looks very energetic and stylish.
At the very least there are some impressive battle sequences which may salve the disappointment of last year's Gladiator 2
“I want to stress that the Minns Labor Government and the New South Wales Police Force are doing everything they can to keep our regional communities safe.”
Ms Catley said police are “working around the clock to fight these crimes and arrest offenders”.
“It is our priority to address these serious crimes being committed by young people across regional NSW.
“That’s why Operational Regional Mongoose was stood up to prevent, disrupt and respond to escalating instances of these serious crimes.”
Between September 2023 and 20 January 2025, Operation Regional Mongoose arrested and charged 376 individuals (of which 238 were juveniles) in the state’s Northern Region.
Ms Catley told the House there was “no ‘one size fits all’ solution to these deeply entrenched problems”.
“We know we need to get to the bottom of the complex problems driving crime in our regional communities and tackle the root causes and drivers of this offending.
“If there was a silver bullet the previous Government would have done it - that much is obvious.”
q Nikki Brown teaches bush skills.
q Children learning ‘Wildcraft’.
q Nikki with local children at the Dungog Common.
q Police Minister Yasmin Catley updated the House on the State Government’s work to address regional youth crime.
Farmers warn of cactus crisis
FARMERS have warned the march of a destructive cactus through NSW could be only the beginning of the state’s weed woes unless ongoing funding for weed control is secured.
NSW Farmers representative Richard Doyle said farmers in the north of the state have reported a drastic surge in harrisia cactus infestations as the destructive cactus continues to spread south from the Queensland border.
“This cactus has exploded
Have your say on gaming reforms SPORTS
THE public is invited to have its say on two new schemes aimed at addressing gambling harm and money laundering while supporting a thriving hospitality industry.
The community can give feedback on consultation papers for a proposed thirdparty exclusion scheme and proposed mandatory facial recognition technology to support a statewide exclusion register for NSW hotels and clubs with gaming machines.
“Facial recognition technology will support gambling harm-minimisation by removing the guesswork of staff identifying excluded patrons, often in crowded venues,” the State Government said in a statement.
“There would still need to be human interaction to verify the match made by the system.
“Currently, the list of excluded patrons and images that venue staff need to memorise can be difficult to manage.
“The Government is building strict parameters into the reforms to protect people’s privacy to ensure
due to recent good seasons,” Mr Doyle said.
“Its huge spikes can also injure animals and while farmers are doing everything they can to fight its spread, they cannot win this battle alone.
“Birds are spreading the cacti seeds in their thousands, while feral pigs and other animals are also scattering the seeds far and wide – it’s the perfect storm, and we are struggling to keep up with its spread.”
Harrisia cacti are lowgrowing, spiny cacti with white flowers and red fruit.
Herbicides and biocontrol from mealy bugs can help control the cacti, but Mr Doyle said containment would not be possible without serious and continued funding from the state and federal governments.
“We need a cross-tenure, cross-landscape approach to managing weeds that’s more intensive and coordinated than anything we currently have in place,” Mr Doyle said.
“This cactus is just one of thousands of invasive weeds that are costing farmers huge amounts of time and money to attempt to control, and we need real action – as well as real investment in research and control measures – if we want to get real results.
“Farmers are only the front line of these aggressive threats, and the problem’s only going to get worse unless we say enough is enough on weeds.”
hotels and clubs can only use facial recognition for the purpose of identifying excluded patrons.
“Venues will be prohibited from using the technology for customer tracking, surveillance and marketing purposes.”
The Government says the third-party exclusion scheme would allow family, friends and venues to apply to ban someone experiencing significant gambling harm.
Research estimates that more than a million Australians experienced harm in the past year because of another person’s gambling.
It is proposed the minimum period for an exclusion order would be 12 months, with a maximum period of two or three years, with a temporary exclusion of 21 days while an application is considered.
The Government has also developed a draft facial recognition Code of Practice that gives pubs and clubs already operating the technology guidelines to support identification of selfexcluded patrons.
The code has been
Foot on the gas
into one the game's elite front-rowers.
Cameron Ciraldo.
"I know that this is going to be my last year with Newcastle, I want to go out with a bang," Thompson said.
"There are a few of our boys that are getting along like 'Friz' (Tyson Frizell) and 'Gags' (Dane Gagai).
"Hopefully, they keep playing for the next three to four years, but we don't know how long they're going to be playing for.
"That's a bit of a vibe in our team that we need to make it happen this year."
Thompson said the move away from Newcastle was complicated by the fact coach Adam O'Brien had helped nurture him
Thompson's twin, Super Rugby convert Tyrone, has also landed at the Knights for 2025.
"Everything's been put to bed and I can focus on my season with Newcastle," Thompson said.
"I'm happy that's out of the way. I'm just focused on this year… It was hard.
"It took me a while to come to terms with it, but it is what it is and I've made my decision.
"The club and my teammates have been understanding of it and they know that I've put that aside and I'm going to be with the Newcastle Knights 100 percent this year."
developed over several rounds of consultation with government, industry and community stakeholders, including cyber security and privacy experts.
Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris invited the public to provide feedback.
“Third-party exclusions are designed to help those
experiencing gambling harm and their loved ones when other avenues to seek help may have failed,” he said.
“It recognises the physical, psychological, emotional and financial flowon effects of gambling on a person’s family and friends.
“Facial recognition will also be an important harm-minimisation tool
Rail delays
RAIL passengers were urged to avoid non-essential travel on Monday, as lengthy delays and cancellations continued on the rail network due to industrial action.
Last week saw severe disruption to train services due to an “unprecedented level of unplanned and unnotified staff absences”, Transport for NSW said in a statement.
Around 197 Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink train drivers and guards did not report for their normal shifts as of 5am Monday.
Across Friday, Saturday and Sunday (14-16 February) 1,525 train drivers and guards did not report for work (862 on Friday, 376 on Saturday, and
287 on Sunday), resulting in 3,935 services cancelled or delayed (3,312 on Friday, 558 on Saturday, and 65 on Sunday).
“Significant impacts are expected to continue into next week,” Transport for NSW said in a statement on Sunday.
“However the nature of this action is very unpredictable, and we won’t have clarity on the impacts until the morning when train drivers and guards start to report for their shifts.”
Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink urged employees to turn up to work on Monday and “help run a regular timetable”.
In a statement on Thursday, the Rail, Tram and
by providing another way to identify excluded patrons in crowded venue environments, which can often be challenging for venue staff.
“I encourage everyone to have their say on these important harmminimisation measures.”
The Third-Party Exclusion Consultation Paper
Bus Union (RTBU) placed responsibility for the delays squarely on the shoulders of Transport for NSW.
“Commuters on Sydney’s rail network should prepare for delays from Friday morning, after Transport for NSW knocked over a potential agreement with rail workers at the 11th hour.
“As a result of the Transport’s thwarting of the deal late on Thursday evening, the RBTU’s protected industrial action planned for tomorrowwhich will see trains run 23km/hr slower than usual in areas where the speed limit is over 80km/hr - will go ahead.”
RTBU NSW Secretary Toby Warnes said while the extent of the delays is unclear given the unpredictable nature of the lockout, commuters should
is available here: https:// www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov. au/third-party-exclusionpubs-and-clubs and Facial Recognition Technology in Pubs and Clubs Consultation Paper is available here: https://www.haveyoursay. nsw.gov.au/facialrecognition-technology.
The consultation period will close on 14 March 2025.
direct their anger at the NSW Government.
“We asked the Government to rescind its lockout notices to ensure services ran smoothly on Friday, but unfortunately they refused,” he said.
“We hope that the NSW Government doesn’t choose to blow this up and cause serious delays, but the reality is we can’t predict the impact.
“It’s bitterly disappointing that we haven’t been able to reach a sensible agreement over the past 48 hours.
“We were incredibly close in negotiations but it seems there are people within Transport for NSW who are still intent on blowing this dispute up.” The matter will be heard in a full bench hearing of the Fair Work Commission on Wednesday 19 February.
Premier’s ANZAC Memorial Scholarship tour applications open
UP to 20 students from across NSW will be selected to participate in the annual Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship (PAMS) study tour that will visit historic sites relating to Australia’s military history in the Republic of Korea and Singapore in 2025.
Tour locations in the Republic of Korea include the site of the Battle of Kapyong, the Demilitarised Zone and the UN First Battle Memorial in Osan.
In Singapore, the tour will take in sites such as the Kranji War Memorial, Changi Prison Chapel and Museum and the Fort Siloso and Surrender Chambers.
Zygmunt Gray from Finigan School of Distance Education in Queanbeyan was a PAMS 2024 recipient that toured Japan, describing the trip as a unique opportunity to gain a better understanding of Australians in wartime.
Fellow PAMS 2024 tourist Celine Chandrasegaran from Saint Mary Mackillop College in Albury said the tour was a transformative experience and plans to continue to share the invaluable insights she gained.
The 2025 tour will take place in the Term 3 school holidays departing on Monday 29 September and returning to
Sydney on Friday 10 October.
“This year's Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship presents a unique opportunity to visit South Korea and Singapore,” Premier of NSW Chris Minns said.
“This is a chance to develop a greater appreciation of the story of our nation, along with the story of these nations.
“I really encourage students to apply, to develop their understanding of military history and those who served.”
Eligible students can apply online by submitting a personal essay, a letter of recommendation from their school and a parent consent form.
Applications close on Sunday, 9 March 2025.
More information and details on how to apply is available at https:// www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/education/ premiers-anzac-memorial-scholarship/.
q Harrisia cactus. Photo: B.A. Auld and R.M. Medd NSW DPI.
Foot on the gas
By George CLARKE, AAP
CANTERBURY-BOUND
Leo
Thompson insists he won't be taking his foot off the gas in his final season with Newcastle, vowing to "go out with a bang" at the Knights. Thompson's club future was one of the hottest storylines of the off-season with the New Zealand Test star in hot demand.
Newcastle were desperate to retain him, while Canberra, the club who first brought the 24-year-old to Australia, had viewed the prop as a longterm replacement for Josh Papali'i.
But Canterbury won the race for the prop's signature, in what is a significant endorsement for the Bulldogs' direction under
15
q In-demand Knights forward Leo Thompson is at ease with his decision to join Canterbury in 2025. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.